The Volvo Cross Country can be a great substitute for a sport-utility. It boasts an elevated chassis for ground clearance, no-dent body armor to brush aside trail debris, and all-wheel-drive traction for slippery conditions. Yet it offers the smooth ride, agile handling of a luxury car, while coddling occupants in a luxurious leather cabin.

The Volvo V70 2.4 offers a soft, smooth ride and front-wheel drive. The V70 T5 offers stellar performance and handling with the refined demeanor of a European luxury sedan.

Volvo V70 and Cross Country wagons are based on the same platform as the silky smooth, flagship S80 luxury sedan. Their interiors are elegant and well designed. All are practical wagons with an adaptable seating arrangement and a cavernous cargo compartment complete with tie-down hooks and other useful accessories. Unlike many SUVs, the cargo floor is flat when all the seats are folded.

Add to that Volvo's traditional dedication to safety: Occupants are shielded by a safety-cell structure and active seats designed to prevent whiplash injuries. Airbags are positioned ahead, beside and above. Responsive steering, electronic brake enhancements, and optional traction control help avoid accidents in the first place.

Volvo has reduced prices across the entire V70 range, from $2155 to as much as $3355, depending on model. Leather upholstery and the sunroof are now optional.